I was in an antique store the other day near Gastonia, NC, with some friends. One of my friends found this camera, and showed it to me. I am a filmmaker, and am always interested in old movie cameras. I looked all over it, got acquainted with it, and looked at the price tag. It was $20. I decided to buy it, as long as it ran.
As I checked out, they told me it was half off, so it was only $10. I asked for some batteries so I could test it. It ran when I put the batteries in, so I bought it.
After taking it home, I found a manual online, and I am now looking online for some film to use in it. Unfortunately, it has been a little difficult to find the correct film.
If anyone has any knowledge of where to get unused film (it takes Super 8 film), please let me know. (jgraf@student.gaston.edu) I can send you the chart of what types of film it takes if you like.
I am really excited about this camera, and I hope to have a lot of fun with it.

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Comments

PostRetro, 6 years agoI have the same camera, it was my father's and was used extensively through the 1970's and until around 1985. In April 1987 we got our first video camera and I transferred 90 reels of 8mm film onto VHS (40 years worth). Even by then, film was on its way out. I had to drive 24 miles across Atlanta to get the only projector bulb in town!

Good camera, but merely a display relic in my house!

PostRetro, 6 years agoWhat made this camera unique when introduced, was that it had low-light capabilities more advanced than other cameras for the time, and the shape dictated a two-handed hold that supposedly made it steadier than other cameras.

L Flare, 6 years agoJust checked with National Camera Exchange in Roseville, Minnesota. They say that film is not produced any more. I just came across an xl55 also from storage of a family member that passed away. National Camera guy said camera good only as collector item now. ????????????

JosiahG, 6 years ago@L Flare: you can sometimes find some film online that is old but unused. It is true that the film is not produced anymore.

G.G. Winn, 6 years agoI own the Xl 55 as well, used it for 3 years until something in the film drive malfunctioned. Repairs would be as high to replace it. Shakey zoom and small viewfinder made it more of a toy.

pabennett.64, 6 years agoI just saw your picture of the camera that you purchased a short time ago. I have one myself that for some reason is not working. However, all I did was google "Kodak Super 8 Film" and many sights came up. I am sure you will be able to find the film you need there. OR - contact Kodak in Rochester, NY direct and I am sure that they could supply you with the correct film. Next problem might be finding somewhere to get the film developed, but maybe could be developed and put on a DVD???? Good luck.

RetroLaydeh42, 5 years agoActually, you can go on the Kodak website (I went there a few months ago) and find Super 8/8mm film, brand new, and different types too. They even have an article about it, and you can search on the webite for laboratories that will process the film.
I'm getting this camera shipped to me too, but I've done a little research on film prior to this.